McKeesport, June 2, 2011 – State Sen. Jim Brewster today said the application deadline for the state Property Tax/Rent Rebate Program has been extended to December 31.
“I hope seniors will use this additional time to check their eligibility and apply for benefits,” Brewster said. “People should realize that eligibility and rebate amounts were expanded a few years ago.
“My staff and I stand ready to help seniors obtain applications and apply.”
The rebate program benefits eligible Pennsylvanians age 65 and older; widows and widowers age 50 and older; and people with disabilities age 18 and older. The income limit is $35,000 a year for homeowners and $15,000 annually for renters, and half of Social Security income is excluded.
The maximum standard rebate is $650, but supplemental rebates for qualifying homeowners can boost rebates to $975.
Brewster said over 500,000 people have already applied for benefits this year. He said the Department of Revenue will begin sending out benefit checks in July.
Applicants can also obtain Property Tax/Rent Rebate claim forms (PA-1000) and related information online at www.revenue.state.pa.us or by calling, toll-free, 1-888-222-9190.
The program is funded through Lottery and gaming proceeds.
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